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FAQs for Newcomers

Having reservations about taking up rugby? Read through our most frequently asked questions to find out why you should give us a try!

Do I need prior experience?

NO! The vast majority of NUIG players had no previous experience of rugby, or even tag rugby, when they joined the club. Third-level is usually the first place women have the opportunity to play rugby so if you’ve never played before you will be in good company. Though the majority of players have played sports at some point before joining rugby, other former squad members joined without having a sports background – definite proof that no experience is required!

What gear/equipment do I need?

You will need rugby/football boots of some kind, but these can be found at reasonable prices. You will also need a gumshield once we start contact training; scrum-caps, thermals, and shoulder pads are all optional.

I wouldn’t be able to play – I’m not fit!

Don’t worry! Team fitness sessions are part of the training we receive, and after the summer holidays you can be guaranteed that everyone will be at a similar level of fitness! Pitch training incorporates aspects of fitness training so you won’t even notice you’re doing the hard work, and with the whole squad training together, it’s a great team-bonding, eh, exercise!

But I don’t know the rules!

Remember, not many people do when they first take up rugby! It comes with time, practice and, of course, match experience. We have highly qualified coaches who will take you through the rules during training, and your team-mates will be on hand to help with any queries. Questions are always asked – so don’t be afraid to raise your hand!

But I’m afraid of contact!

Don’t worry – this is natural! However, we can guarantee you will feel differently after a joining in in a training session. You will be taught EVERYTHING you need to know about how to tackle and how to receive a tackle safely. Remember, rugby is not a reckless sport!

Yes but don’t rugby players suffer bad injuries?

Believe it or not, once players train regularly hardly any injuries occur. Just like in any other sport, accidents sometimes happen but for the most part the most you will suffer is a little bruising. Our coaches will provide us with proper conditioning programmes for injury prevention, so it shouldn’t be a problem if you do the work.

What competitions does the squad play in?

NUIG Women’s Rugby competes annually in the Connacht Development League; the Intervarsity League (Division 1); and the Intervarsity Championships, the sport’s flagship tournament which takes place over two days at a host institution in the second semester. Apart from that, the squad has played friendlies against numerous visiting teams.

Are there any opportunities for learning more about the game?

Absolutely! Rugby is about more than a game – it’s a community. During your time at NUIG Women’s Rugby you will gain an insight into the workings of the game at club (meeting teams, matches, socials, tours), Interprovincial (working with Connacht Rugby in training to become a coach, volunteering at Connacht matches), and at a collegiate level, with opportunities to apply for sports scholarships, and to enhance the development of the club and your leadership skills through the annual NUIG Sports Leadership Programme.

Sounds like you train a lot…ever socialise?

But of course! Between post-match celebrations and fundraising events with the men’s team and other sports clubs, we keep ourselves busy! The annual NUIG RFC Ball takes place in the second semester, and the squad takes regular trips to support the Irish Women’s Rugby team during the Six Nations tournament, and of course the Connacht team who are based at The Sportsgrounds and will be competing in their first Heineken Cup competition this season. Join the fun!